Allison Janney disclosed during an appearance on “Watch What Happens Live” that she had a negative experience with a former co-star, whom she would never work with again, and indicated that the actor has since passed away. Despite playful pressure from host Andy Cohen and fellow guest Keri Russell, she steadfastly refused to reveal the individual’s identity.
On Wednesday’s episode of Bravo’s “Watch What Happens Live,” Allison Janney joined host Andy Cohen and co-guest Keri Russell for a lighthearted segment where they used paddles to agree or disagree with various statements. The conversation took a revealing turn when Cohen posed the statement, “There is a past co-star I refuse to work with again,” to which both Janney and Russell immediately agreed, signaling shared experiences in the industry.
Janney, a 65-year-old Oscar and Emmy winner, quickly added a twist by noting that her problematic co-star is “no longer with us.” She quipped, “So I really couldn’t work with him again, even if I wanted to,” effectively closing the door on any future collaborations while avoiding direct criticism of the deceased actor.
Cohen and Russell, intrigued by Janney’s cryptic comment, playfully attempted to coax the name out of her, offering “extra points” for naming names. However, Janney remained resolute, stating, “No, I’m not saying it. I will not be lulled into a false sense of safety being in this small, little club,” demonstrating her commitment to discretion despite the informal setting.
When Russell inquired about Janney’s mother’s advice on speaking negatively about others, Janney recalled her mother saying, “In the car, windows up, out of the driveway,” emphasizing the importance of privacy and avoiding public disparagement. This anecdote highlighted Janney’s upbringing and ethical stance against gossiping, even in a celebrity talk show environment.
With over 150 acting credits spanning decades, including notable roles in “The West Wing,” “Juno,” and “I, Tonya,” pinpointing the specific co-star proved difficult for fans and sleuths. Online speculation quickly emerged, with names like John Spencer from “The West Wing” and Matthew Perry from “Mr. Sunshine” being floated, though Janney provided no confirmation, leaving the mystery unsolved.
The incident underscores the complexities of Hollywood relationships and the boundaries stars set to maintain professionalism. Janney, who currently stars alongside Russell in Netflix’s “The Diplomat,” showed that even in retirement or death, past collaborations can linger in memory, but she chose to handle it with grace and humor rather than airing grievances publicly.
This episode reflects a broader trend where celebrities navigate personal histories while engaging with media, balancing transparency with privacy. Janney’s handling of the situation—acknowledging a difficult experience without vilifying anyone—sets an example of dignified conduct in an industry often rife with controversy.